Beyond 147 : exploring the impact of snooker on Hong Kong's cultural identity in 1980s and 1990s

Abstract

This dissertation explores the influence of snooker on Hong Kong's cultural identity during the transformative decades of the 1980s and 1990s. Snooker had a significant presence in the city, both as an international competition and a popular leisure activity. It also made its mark in cinematic representations. The integration of British snooker stars in tournaments garnered admiration and respect, while local players became symbols of a distinct local identity. Snooker halls and saloons served as vital community hubs, reflecting the diversity of social classes and unique cultural identity of Hong Kong. However, class conflicts also arose due to the association of gambling and criminal activities with certain snooker establishments. In the realm of cinema, snooker was not solely depicted as a source of crime and violence. Notably, the film Legend of the Dragon (1991) portrayed snooker as a symbol of wealth and the capitalistic lifestyle, signifying the community’s embrace of Western culture and their connection to Chinese cultural heritage before the Handover in 1997. This dissertation contributes to the understanding of the multifaceted role that snooker played in shaping Hong Kong’s cultural fabric during this transformative period in its history.